"Yerba Mate -The Metabolism Booster That Can Help You Lose Weight"
It Can Provide That
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Yerba mate is a drink that has recently obtained celebrity status, with celebs such as Madonna, Matt Dillon and Alicia Silverstone among its proponents. It has long been a staple of many South American cultures, but its numerous health benefits have only recently come to light in the Northern Hemisphere.| Yerba mate is thought to stimulate the central nervous system and, due to the aforementioned xanthines, provide extra energy and can help you battle fatigue.
This pick-me-up is not attributed to the caffeine it contains, as it contains much lower amounts of caffeine than does coffee. |
German researchers have concluded that it would take 100 bags of mate in one 170 gram cup of water, to equal the caffeine found in one 170 gram cup of coffee.
From an energy perspective, it provides the extra kick you need, but without experiencing that edgy feeling you get from drinking caffeine-rich coffee. |
It Can Help You Lose Weight
For many years, European doctors have been incorporating it as part of a overall treatment plan for obesity. In 2000, a team of researchers at the Charlottenlund Medical Center in Denmark, studied a preparation of yerba, guarana and damiana, and concluded that this mix significantly postponed gastric emptying while reducing the amount of time required to feel full after eating. This translated to a significant weight loss over a 45-day period for patients that were treated in a primary health care setting. |
In another study from June 2001, published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, it was found to slow digestion while speeding up metabolism. This would indicate it might assist with weight loss. Yerba mate is also thought to be thermogenic in nature, which means that it encourages the body to burn calories.
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In a 1999 study performed by the University of Lausanne, Switzerland, the study’s participants demonstrated an increase in the total fat their bodies burned for energy. In South America, the Guarani Indians have used it for many years for a number of reasons, especially as an appetite suppressant. |
It Is High in Antioxidants
and Other Nutrients
| If you’re looking for a nutrient that contains high levels of antioxidants, look no further. Antioxidants help provide protection against several serious chronic diseases including cancer and heart disease. |
In a 1995 study, published by Biochemicaland Molecular Biology International, researchers concluded that extracts from this plant were more powerful antioxidants, than either vitamin C or butylated hydroxytoluene, an antioxidant food additive. |
| In a study done in 2001, researchers examined several different types of the mate plant, and found that they had a greater content of flavonoids, which are a specialized type of antioxidant.
Mate also contain a large amount of another particular type of antioxidant called a polyphenol. In fact, Yerba contains 11 different polyphenols, which are chemicals that help to provide protection against damage caused by free radicals and may inhibit the effects of aging. |
It Can Positively Affect Your Cardiovascular Profile
| Preliminary research suggests that Yerba Mate may help lower levels of LDL-cholesterol. Its ingredients function to stimulate the myocardial tissues of the heart.
Also, there have been several small studies indicating that one of Yerba's benefits is its ability to fight atherosclerosis, which is a condition characterized by blocked arteries. |
As it is high in antioxidants, this makes it an excellent nutrient providing protection against various types of heart disease. Yerba is able to halt the chain reaction caused by free radicals, which can lead to heart disease. Mate also helps to carry oxygen to the heart and lungs. |
It May Prevent Cancer
| In 2005, scientists at the University of Illinois examined over 25 different types of mate. They found it to contain higher levels of antioxidants and based on laboratory studies, thought it might help to prevent oral cancer. | In another study, published in Mutation Research in 2004, it was revealed that mate's strong antioxidant content, makes it a possible preventive against cancer. | The above-mentioned polyphenols have a strong anticancer effect in mammals, as they strengthen their natural defenses. However, more research needs to be done in this area. |
It Stimulates the Mind
| Yerba mate is a potent stimulant. This can be attributed to the xanthines, theobromines and theophyllines mentioned earlier. If you are an individual that doesn't tolerate coffee well, mate may be a more desirable alternative.
Those who drink it report an increase in their mental energy levels and focus, without any of the side effects associated with coffee. |
Other Uses
Here are a few other uses for yerba mate:
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| Yerba mate could very well turn out to be the new superfood of the 21st century. It contains over 190 active chemical compounds, including antioxidants, polyphenols, essential fatty acids and over 15 amino acids.
Long popular in South America, it could become the new trendy drink in the northern hemisphere as well. Be advised that further research may be needed to validate many of the benefits mentioned above. But it certainly packs a strong nutritional punch; making it one of the best super foods you can eat. Free Healthy Living Spotlight newsletterSign up for the FREE Healthy Living Spotlight newsletter. This monthly newsletter is packed with valuable health related tips and advice, product reviews and free stuff and feature articles on home remedies and all things health. Remember, your email address is completely safe and you can unsubscribe at any time. |
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